February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. Dunklin County Health Department wants you to know that there’s a lot you can do as a parent to prevent teen dating violence and abuse.

About 1 in 10 teens who have been on a date have also been physically abused by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the last year. One of the most important things you can do is keep the lines of communication open with your kids.

Take steps to make a difference:

· Be a role model – treat your kids and others with respect.

· Start talking to your kids about healthy relationships early – before they start dating.

· Get involved with efforts to prevent dating violence at your teen’s school.

· If you are worried about your teen, call the loveisrespect helpline at 1-866-331-9474 or text “loveis” to 22522.

You can help keep your loved ones safe and healthy.

For more information visit https://www.safeconnections.org or https://www.teenpregnancy-mo.org